SVP, ISIT/Chief Information Officer

Summary

The Senior Vice President of Information Systems and Information Technology (ISIT) and Chief Information Officer (CIO), directs and manages Sierra Central Credit Union’s computing and information technology strategic plans. This includes, but is not limited to, Sierra Central Credit Union’s technology, analytics and digital services as well as all policies, programs, and schedules for data processing, computer services, network communications, management information services and all aspects of Sierra Central Credit Union’s corporate goals and objectives. The CIO will ensure data security and regulatory information security compliance, lead the development and execution of a digital transformation strategy which aligns technology with our mission and vision, drive innovation and improve member satisfaction through seamless, secure, and scalable technology solutions. This position also requires you to understand business principles and techniques of administration, organization, and management to include an in-depth understanding of the key business issues that exist in the credit union industry.

Essential Functions

Strategy & Planning

1.  Develop strategic plans and implement the objectives of the information technology needs of the organization to ensure the computer capabilities are responsive to the needs of the organization’s growth.

2.  Direct and manage computing and information technology strategic plans, policies, programs and schedules for data processing, computer services, network communications, and management information services to accomplish corporate goals and objectives.

3.  Collaborate with business units to formulate and deploy long-term strategies and vision of technology; communicate future plans by matching technology solutions with strategic business drivers.

4.  Provide consultation on strategic business plans relating to technology, analytics and digital service delivery to ensure they are effectively evaluated for compatibility and effectiveness including the development of new systems, the evaluation of existing systems or the acquisition of vendor services. Assist in system selection, negotiation, implementation and support.

5.  Responsible for overall planning, organizing and execution of all IT functions ensuring efficient use of existing technology solutions. Provide reliable and cost-effective technology and technology solutions to meet growing need for a paperless environment and greater process efficiencies.

6.  Establish and implement short and long-range departmental goals, objectives, policies and operating procedures.

7.  Work with all areas of the organization to develop the annual technology budget and resources plans. Negotiate budget items based on priorities and time and resource constraints to ensure all critical areas of technology are addressed.

Leadership

8.  Build and mentor a high-performing technology team, fostering a culture of integrity, competence and service to the organization and its members.

9.  Manage and ensure ongoing training and development of ISIT staff. Conduct performance reviews, recommend salary adjustments and counsel staff toward optimum performance including ensuring exceptional levels of service to staff and members.

10.  Provide vision and progressive IT leadership to meet the needs of executive management and staff.

11.  Provide leadership and project management for all phases of strategic technology initiatives.

12.  Work closely with senior leadership and members of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee to provide strategic direction, foster collaboration, and improve transparency across departments.

13.  Model Sierra Central Credit Union’s Core Values and member service expectations.

Security/Risk Management

14.  Develop, implement and monitor a comprehensive enterprise information security and data risk management and governance plan to protect information and technology assets owned, controlled, processed, and achieved by SCCU.

15.  Ensure security of all member and credit union data and appropriate security infrastructure to prevent internal and external threats and develop, maintain and enforce policies and procedures relating to data security.

16.  Ensure IT and data security compliance with regulatory requirements including maintaining policies and procedures.

17.  Ensure robust cybersecurity measures and lead disaster recovery and business continuity initiatives.

18.  Support the management of enterprise networking and network security.

19.  Direct the information and data integrity of the company and its business units.

20.   Develop and maintain the Company Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Plan for the organization ensuring the ability to maintain operations during disruptions.

21.  Ensure the security of all information systems, communication lines and equipment.

Digital Transformation

22.  Lead digital transformation initiatives including on-line and mobile banking, AI integration and back-office automation. Leverage data analytics to personalize services and optimize operations.

23.  Develop and execute a forward-looking technology strategy that enhances digital member experiences and supports growth.

24.  Evaluate overall operations of computing and information technology functions and recommend enhancements.

25.  Maintain current knowledge of technology, analytics and digital service trends with particular emphasis on the financial services industry.

Operations

26.  Develop, implement and maintain effective policies and procedures for information technology, ensuring that access, security and usage are in accordance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations.

27.  Maintain internal and external audit readiness for all information systems and technology.

28.  Prepare enterprise objectives and budgets to facilitate the orderly and efficient capture, storage, processing, and dissemination of information.

29.  Review and approve major contracts for computing and information technology services and equipment.

30.  Support the maintenance and technological development of the Company web page.

31.  Ensure the negotiation of systems and component acquisitions, end-user service agreements, contracts and vendor service agreements.

32.  Establish Company infrastructure to support and guide individual divisions/departments/sites in computing and information technology efforts.

33.  Oversee IT operations, ensuring scalable, secure, and compliant systems including core banking platforms and payment systems.

34.  Oversee the management of all telecommunication systems and service partners.

35.  Ensure technology initiatives are on track and approved budgets are utilized as originally requested.

36.  Support the management of enterprise systems application development as well as database management and support.

37.  Oversee the development, design, and implementation of new applications and changes to existing computer systems and software packages.

38.  Ensure quality helpdesk and user support services.

39.  Interact with Company managers on internal and external operations that are impacted by the capture, storage, processing and dissemination of information.

40.  Define, document, manage and communicate project milestone, service level agreements, and resource allocation to executive team, departments heads, and end users regarding relevant technology efforts and activities.

41.  Develop and establish operating policies and approaches for computing and information technology.

42.  Other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities

•Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing and ability to speak and present in an effective manner.

•Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment with multiple projects and deadlines.

•Ability to respond to problems and challenges during non-scheduled hours of operation, including the need to occasionally work evenings, weekends and holidays.

•Must demonstrate cooperative behaviour with colleagues and supervisors.

•Excellent analytical and abstract reasoning skills and exceptional organization skills.

•Demonstrated leadership ability, team management and interpersonal skills

•Ability to use varying styles and approaches that reflect an understanding and acceptance of the role of culture in a diverse workplace.

Education and Experience

Education

•Bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, or a related field is required; MBA or Master’s degree is preferred.

Experience

•A minimum of 10 years of experience as a CIO or other senior technology leadership position; preferably within financial services or fintech.

•Proven track record of leading digital transformation and business initiatives with deep expertise in digital banking technologies, cybersecurity, and compliance.

•Strong leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills, with a passion for innovation and member-centric technology solutions.

•Experience partnering and communicating with executive staff and board of directors resulting in the development and implementation of IT, information management and business process management strategies necessary to achieve profits, growth and other goals of the Company. 

•Significant experience in and knowledge of all facets of IT including systems applications, database administration, financial systems, networks, telecommunications, computer hardware and software, etc. 

•Experience leading disaster recovery and business continuity initiatives.

•Deep experience in troubleshooting and crisis management.

Salary range - $237,100 - $306,490 annually